"She is who she is and she will never change": Mirra Andreeva on what inspires her about Ons Jabeur after crushing win

Ons Jabeur said before her crushing loss to Mirra Andreeva at the 2024 Australian Open that the Russian teenager would want to kick her a** despite admitting the Tunisian was her idol and she did just that as the 16-year-old continued to produce an epic level in a Rod Laver Arena masterclass.

But Andreeva who throughout her time on tour so far is known for her humble and calm nature was still full of praise for Jabeur post match and opened up on why she is inspired by Jabeur.

“Just the way she's on the court & off the court. She's so nice," said Andreeva.

Now, after the match, she came to me, she wished me luck. I just know that she is who she is & she will never change. That's what I like about her.”

But one weapon in her arsenal was her drop-shot and she also admitted that this was done with Jabeur in mind who was called the drop-shot queen and only a tool she added yesterday before the tie so one she will look to improve when she takes on Paula Badosa next up in Melbourne. “Yes, I was preparing for this match. I knew she was going to do a lot of slices & dropshots, so since yesterday I was working on it... I think she's still better than me in this. I will improve," she said.

Amidst her being crowned WTA Newcomer of the Year in 2023 and being one of the best rising talents in tennis, a first big win like Jabeur will send Andreeva hurdling towards the spotlight and likely for a further ranking boom. But as ever the 16-year-old has taken it all in her stride for now and continues to be full of praise for her peers including Jabeur despite the crushing nature of her win.